Rolex

1988 Rolex Submariner (Ref. 168000) "Triple 0" W/ Box & Papers

This specific Rolex Submariner ref. 168000 is both very rare and transitional that combines the best elements of both the vintage and modern Rolex Submariner into one complete package. The Rolex Submariner ref. 168000 was only produced in for about 7-9 months between 1987-1988 making it a very rare reference.

Rolex 168000 Advertisement

 

The ref. 168000 model is considered to be a very rare variant of the Rolex ref. 16800 model due to a very short period of production and simple but substantial improvements. Hence the extra "0" Rolex added to differentiate this short-lived reference. The main difference would be the improvement in the quality of the stainless steel, which was upgraded from grade 316L to grade 904L. After only about 9 months of production 168000 was replaced with 16610 which was much the same watch but with the new 3135 movements.

The ref. 168000 is one of the most undervalued Rolex Submariners in the transitional range 

Stock # RLXSUB87168000-4
Brand Rolex
Style Submariner 
Model 168000
Serial R8XXXXX
Size Men's
Material Stainless Steel
Dial Black Glossy
Millimeters 40
Bracelet Rolex 93150 Oyster Bracelet W/ 593 End Pieces

 

CASE & BRACELET

The strong case retains slight chamfers with full and symmetrical lugs that show honest signs of use. The original bezel insert shows light signs of use, remaining deep black in coloration, and retains its tritium pearl at the 12 o'clock position that matches the dial patina perfectly and does exhibit a crack. The original Rolex 93150 Oyster bracelet with 593 end pieces is unpolished as shows honest signs of use and retains 11 links that show light signs of use.

DIAL & HANDSc

The glossy black dial with white gold surround markers is absolutely beautiful with a consistent speckled patina throughout and no major damage resent on the dial. The tritium lume plots have aged to a charming creamy ivory patina, under U.V. light inspection the 12 o'clock triangle shows a light crack in the lume and is stable, the rest of the lume plots remain fully intact. The original tritium lume plots have aged to match the dial nicely and display no degradation when inspected under U.V. light. The white date wheel is original with open 6's and 9's.

ACCESSORIES 

The watch comes complete with its original inner and outer boxes, serialized Rolex guarantee paper, booklets, Rolex Anchor, Rolex cloth, and chronometer seal tag. The watch was recently serviced and is keeping time perfectly, backed by a 1-year warranty on accurate timekeeping.